Sensorimotor System

Question 1

Three principles of sensorimotor function

Answer 1

1. Sensorimotor system is hierarchically organized
2. Motor output is guided by sensory output (sensory feedback)
3. Learning changes the nature and locus of sensorimotor control

Question 2

Efferent neurons

Answer 2

send impulses from the CNS to limbs and organs

Question 3

afferent neurons

Answer 3

receive information from our sensory organs (eye, skin) and transmit this input to the CNS

Question 4

Sensory feedback

Answer 4

Feedback from sensory receptors is returned along the afferent pathways so the brain can monitor the consequence of actions (ballistic movements occur too fast to be modified by feedback)

Question 5

Sensorimotor learning

Answer 5

when we first learn to do something, each individual response is performed under conscious control. After practice respones become more organized and are perfomed without conscious regulation

Question 6

Sensorimotor associaton cortex

Answer 6

at the top of sensorimotor hierarchy, divided ito two areas.

• posterior parietal association cortex
• dorsolateral parietal association cortex